The 2019 Audubon Photo Contest highlighted intimate wildlife moments and sweeping conservation stories from across the Americas. This collection reflects the power of visual storytelling to connect everyday nature enthusiasts with urgent environmental themes.
Below is a structured overview of the contest highlights, key winners, and impact metrics from the 2019 season.
| Category | Photo Title | Photographer | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birds | Black Skimmer Foraging at Dusk | Carlos Perez Nasini | Florida, USA |
| Landscape | Storm Light Over the Everglades | Dylan Robb | Florida, USA |
| Conservation | Whooping Crane Family Migration | Mitch Hastings | Wisconsin, USA |
| Youth | Reflections of a Snow Goose | Amir Al-Hamdani | New York, USA |
Technical Excellence in Field Photography
Judges evaluated entries on exposure precision, composition balance, and the ability to convey behavior or place. Sharp focus, ethical approach to wildlife, and thoughtful use of light were decisive factors across species and habitats.
Conservation Impact Through Visual Storytelling
Winning images reinforced habitat protection narratives and inspired action around wetlands, grasslands, and coastal resilience. The contest partnered with local organizations to amplify messaging and elevate science-based advocacy.
Community Engagement and Education
Alongside exhibition tours, the program hosted workshops for educators and photographers, emphasizing how to document changing ecosystems responsibly. These efforts strengthened ties between amateur observers and professional conservation initiatives.
Categories and Recognition
Entries spanned Birds, Landscape, Conservation, and Youth divisions, each with distinct criteria. Recognition included publication features, gallery features, and partnership-driven opportunities for broader audience reach.
Key Takeaways for Nature Photographers
- Prioritize ethical wildlife practices and minimal disturbance in the field.
- Focus on composition and light to strengthen narrative impact.
- Leverage contest platforms to connect conservation messaging with broader audiences.
- Use the experience to develop a sustained portfolio documenting regional ecosystems.
FAQ
Reader questions
How were contest winners selected in 2019?
Winners were chosen by a panel of photography and conservation experts based on technical merit, artistic impact, and relevance to environmental storytelling.
Can amateur photographers enter the Audubon Photo Contest?
Yes, the contest actively encourages entries from amateur and emerging photographers, with a dedicated Youth category and supportive educational resources.
What image specifications were required for submissions in 2019?
Submissions needed high-resolution digital files adhering to defined dimensions, with metadata including location, date, and species information where possible.
How did the 2019 contest support conservation outreach?
Winning images were showcased in public exhibits and digital campaigns, linking visual stories to policy advocacy and habitat restoration projects.